Name: Jack Wild
Date of Birth: 30 September 1952 The Steven Patrick Morrissey song, "Little Man, What Now," which describes a child star long faded from the spotlight, is widely believed to be about Jack Wild, although some sources claim that it is Malcolm McFee who is referred to in the song. Toured the United Kingdom as "Bob Cratchit" in "A Christmas Carol" and also appeared in pantomime. Ex-wife Gay was a backup singer for various artists, including David Essex. Jack's minor role in his last film Moussaka & Chips (2005) reunited him with his Oliver! (1968) co-star Ron Moody. ... Was working on his autobiography at the time of his death of mouth cancer, which was prompted by years of heavy smoking and excessive drinking. Came from a working-class family. His father worked in a tire factory and moved Jack and older brother Arthur from Manchester to London while Jack was still young. Knew singer Phil Collins when they were youngsters, and played football with him. Collins's mother, a theatrical agent, entered both Jack and his brother Arthur Wild into the Barbara Speake Stage School, a training facility for kid professionals. Brother Arthur Wild played the title role in the West End production of "Oliver!" and Jack played one of "the boys." Auditioning for the role of the Artful Dodger several times, he was always turned down for being too short. It was only after he played the character in the celebrated screen version that he was offered the role on stage. Nominated for an Oscar in 1968 for his Oliver! (1968) role, he attended the Academy Awards ceremony on April 14, 1969, and had been assured he was a front- runner in the Supporting Actor category. He initially stood up when the category was announced and he heard the name "Jack." He sat down just as quickly when the full name of the winner was announced--Jack Albertson. Won the "8th Annual Gold Star Award" from "16" magazine as the "Best Movie Actor" and "Most Promising TV Star" of 1969. Received a special tribute as part of the Annual Memorial tribute at The 79th Annual Academy Awards (2007) (TV). Was an alcoholic from the late 1970s until he sobered up in 1988. Was always careful never to be seen smoking or drinking in public because he didn't want to encourage young people to copy him. Remained friends with his Oliver! (1968) and Melody (1971) co-star Mark Lester until his death. Read more Jack Wild movies (actor)User Comments |
